Careers & Opportunities

Housing Solutions for the Southwest

Staff Accountant 

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Position Title: Staff Accountant

Reports To: Executive Director

FLSA Classification: Exempt, FT (35 hr./wk.)

Alternative Work Arrangements: In office, this position may be eligible for a hybrid model in the future

Pay Range: Negotiable DOE ($57,000 to $70,000)

Mission and Vision Statement/History

Housing Solutions for the Southwest is a not-for-profit housing agency serving Southwest Colorado. Originally incorporated in 1981 as a community action agency, Housing Solutions currently focuses on housing needs, as the cost of housing has exponentially outpaced the average wage in the region. The mission of Housing Solutions is “to lead the way in providing help, hope, and a seamless system of affordable housing services to our communities in Southwest Colorado.”

Summary of Position

This full-time position is responsible for all day-to-day accounting operations of the agency and any related entities, including maintaining a system of controls to ensure assets are used appropriately. The agency is planning on hiring a PT Contract Finance Director to assist with the higher-level functions of the agency, such as audits, budgets, etc. The agency currently has one other PT Accountant on staff who predominantly works on the financials for the properties owned or managed by Housing Solutions. 

This position is responsible for maintaining a chart of accounts and general ledger, overseeing required financial statements, compliance with State and Federal fiscal guidelines, the annual budget, and assisting the PT Contract Finance Director in preparing for the audit. This position is responsible for managing cash flow. This includes managing the accuracy and productivity of day-to-day activities of accounts payable, cash disbursements, invoicing/billing, loan participant credits and collections, payroll, and fixed asset records. This position works with other accounting staff. As part of the leadership team, this position includes strategy work towards the agency’s sustainability.

The goal for this position is to phase out the PT Finance Director role within two to three years and have the Staff Accountant become the agency’s Finance Director and perform additional higher-level responsibilities (audit, budget, and indirect cost rate, etc.).  

Education/Skill/Knowledge Requirements

• Degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or equivalent experience. Non-profit accounting experience is preferred. A working knowledge of the fund accounting software and programs utilized by Housing Solutions is helpful. (Abila/Sage) 
• 4 years of relevant work experience 
• The ability to think analytically at the organizational level and to interpret results and anticipate trends. 
• Solid understanding of financial statements
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret technical procedures or governmental regulations relating to grants and grant reporting
• Strong organizational skills, efficiency, accuracy, and attention to detail
• Ability to work in a team environment
• Effective written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and time management are essential.
• Strong computer skills in financial data systems, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and online reporting databases. Currently, 4D Loan software and ABILA programs are used. Experience with ABILA or Sage is preferred. Confidentiality is required.
• Must possess a valid driver’s License

Summary of Accounting Responsibilities

• Internal Controls: Follow policies, rules, and procedures to ensure the integrity of financial & accounting information, promote accountability, and prevent fraud.
• Enter all transactions for Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable 
• Post accounting transactions to the General Ledger. This will include maintaining separate funds and coding payment and receipt vouchers with the appropriate fund and account number.
• Post Revolving Loan Rehab Payments and reconcile the loan database to the accounting database.
• Prepare and post month-end entries
• Prepare all grant billings
• Produce reports required for loans, various grants, and program reports.
• Assist the PT Finance Director and Executive Director with the development, management, and monitoring of the annual budget throughout the year, and enter the budget into the accounting program.
• Maintain Financial Records
• Attend trainings as applicable to meet specific job duties and requirements.
• Assist Executive Director and PT Finance Director with Human Resource functions, such as onboarding of new employees and exiting terminated employees
• Financial Planning: Assist the PT Finance Director and Executive Director to ensure cash flow will meet program demands. 

General Performance Standards

• Dependability – Can be relied on to carry out both regular and extraordinary work assignments.
• Cooperation – Willingness and ability to work with others.
• Organization – Ability to manage time effectively and arrange work materials for most efficient use.
• Accuracy – Produces professional and error-free work.
• Observation of working hours – Works within proper time frames.
• Flexibility – Ability to meet changing or new situations and needs, and able to adapt to new job assignments.
• Adherence to policies – Follows organization and departmental policies and procedures.
• Safety – Understanding and implementation of safe work habits.
• Appearance – Maintains appearance and personal hygiene appropriate for the job.
• Loyalty – Maintains allegiance to the agency and represents the employer in a positive, constructive manner.
• Communication – Expresses thoughts clearly and concisely in writing and orally.

Essential Mental & Physical Demands:

Extensive computer work and sitting, fast pace, multi-tasking, shared office, ability to compute numbers, read, and have a normal range of vision and hearing. 

How to apply: We encourage applicants from all diverse backgrounds to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Resume and a cover letter are required for consideration. Please send to Elizabeth Salkind, Housing Solutions Executive Director: esalkind@swhousingsolutions.com. Position open until filled. 

References: Candidates selected for an interview must provide two references from a direct supervisor.